Jazz Pharmaceuticals plc (JAZZ) recently discussed its product portfolio and pipeline. Key products in the company’s portfolio include Xyrem, Erwinaze and Prialt.
Xyrem (sodium oxybate) is available in the US market since 2002 for cataplexy and excessive daytime sleepiness in narcolepsy. The specialty biopharmaceutical company stated that it expects to meet the guidance of Xyrem 2012 sales ranging $375-$380 million, announced in Nov 2012. The company is currently facing patent challenges for Xyrem. Two abbreviated new drug applications (ANDA) have been filed out of which litigation going on with one.
Jazz Pharma added Erwinaze (asparaginase Erwinia chrysanthemi) to its product portfolio following its EUSA Pharma acquisition in Jun 2012. Erwinaze is used for the treatment of patients suffering from acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) with hypersensitivity to E. coli-derived asparaginase therapy. The company expects to exceed the guidance of $125-$129 million in 2012. The product enjoys orphan drug exclusivity in the US till Nov 2018.
The company has initiated a study evaluating intravenous formulation Erwinaze. Jazz Pharma expects preliminary pharmacokinetic data from the study in the second half of 2013.
Jazz Pharma added chronic pain treatment Prialt to its product portfolio through its acquisition of Azur Pharma in Jan 2012. In the first half of 2013, the company intends to initiate a registry trial for the drug to provide additional data on the drug.
Moveover, a phase III trial evaluating Leukotac for the treatment of steroid-refractory acute graft versus host disease is ongoing in the EU. Data from the trial is expected to be released in the end of 2014 or early 2015.
Currently, we have a Neutral recommendation on Jazz Pharma. The stock carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold rating) in the short run.
Pharma stocks, which currently look more attractive, are Targacept Inc. (TRGT) and Valeant Pharmaceuticals (VRX). Both these companies carry a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy).
JAZZ PHARMACEUT (JAZZ): Free Stock Analysis Report
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